About

About Wholesome Canine

Wholesome Canine is owned and operated by Christine Ford, a recognized authority on canine nutrition. With over 20 years of experience working with and studying dogs, Christine opened Wholesome Canine in 2012 to create a safe place to shop for and learn about all things dog.

Whether you’re looking to change your dog’s diet to cooked or raw, provide natural supplements that actually work, or ensure the treats you give your dog are actually good for them (while still being delicious!), Wholesome Canine is your go-to source for expert advice.

From our carefully chosen Canadian-made foods to our curated collection of supplements, pet parents can rest assured that we’ve done the research and read all the labels so you don’t have to.

Christine Ford

Shop owner, Canine Nutrition Consultant

The foundation of Christine’s passion for dogs was her 14 year tenure as the owner-operator of Oh My Dog!, one of Toronto’s first and most respected dog-walking services. Along the way, she found time to create and manage two community organizations, as co-founder of Toronto Rabbit Rescue and as administrative volunteer at Lost and Found Pets Toronto.

Christine achieved a Certificate in Advanced Canine Nutrition from the Companion Animal Sciences Institute, graduating with honours and completing all eight electives. With the help of her mentor, Dr. Jean Dodds, Christine continually works to stay abreast of emerging research. She’s an associate member of the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies and has been operating as a canine nutrition consultant since 2012.

Christine has formulated home-cooked meals and created supplement plans for countless dogs, changing so many lives along the way.

Education & Certificates:

Canine Nutrition Certificate (1 year) | Companion Animal Sciences Institute
Advanced Canine Nutrition Certificate (1 year) | Companion Animal Sciences Institut
- All electives completed: Cancer, Cardiovascular Disorders, Orthopedic Disorders, Kidney Disorders, Gastrointestinal and Metabolism Disorders, and Endocrine Disorders.
Senior Dog Nutrition | College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies
Recognized professional by Fresh Pet Food Consultants
Currently enrolled in The Herbal Dog

Testimonials

I don’t even have words to express how grateful I am that Wholesome Canine even exists. Every single item in the store is geared towards making your dog’s life healthier and happier and more “wholesome”. And the owners are super knowledgeable and always helpful.

Nasim

When I adopted my rescue dog near the beginning of the pandemic, I wanted to ensure I was doing everything possible to provide a healthy and happy new life for her. Christine and Helen have been an ongoing source of knowledge and support for me and my dog. I absolutely LOVE the Wholesome Canine and I recommend it to all dog parents!

Mandy

Incredible small business owned by two local women. They’ve got an excellent selection of items and food, but the expertise and knowledge of the helpful staff is what makes this place special.

Peter

Staff are friendly but more importantly, helpful! They took the time to fit my dog with a harness, trying multiple sizes to make sure we settled on the right size. We've also used their puppy socialization play date services and my pup absolutely loved it! Will be going again soon. I recommend this 'class' for anyone needing to socialize their puppy.

Mimi

We have a rescue for senior and special needs tiny dogs and without their support and generosity we would never be able to do what we do for these broken little ones in our care. Thank you WC for always being there for us and our little foster dogs, and helping us give them a chance at a thriving and healthy future.

Nasim

Great place! They helped my dog when she had her health problems, she’s back to herself again! Forever grateful! I do and will continue coming here ... The staff are great! They are always willing to help with any concerns you have about your pet. Absolutely amazing!

Maria